Intensive vs Conventional Blood Pressure Lowering After Endovascular Thrombectomy in Acute Ischemic Stroke: The OPTIMAL-BP Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: Optimal blood pressure (BP) control after successful reperfusion with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for patients with acute ischemic stroke is unclear. Objective: To determine whether intensive BP management during the first 24 hours after successful reperfusion leads to better clinical outcomes than conventional BP management in patients who underwent EVT. Design, Setting, and Participants: Multicenter, randomized, open-label trial with a blinded end-point evaluation, conducted across 19 stroke centers in South Korea from June 2020 to November 2022 (final follow-up, March 8, 2023). It included 306 patients with large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke treated with EVT and with a modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score of 2b or greater (partial or complete reperfusion). Interventions: Participants were randomly assigned to receive intensive BP management (systolic BP target <140 mm Hg; n = 155) or conventional management (systolic BP target 140-180 mm Hg; n = 150) for 24 hours after enrollment. Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcome was functional independence at 3 months (modified Rankin Scale score of 0-2). The primary safety outcomes were symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage within 36 hours and death related to the index stroke within 3 months. Results: The trial was terminated early based on the recommendation of the data and safety monitoring board, which noted safety concerns. Among 306 randomized patients, 305 were confirmed eligible and 302 (99.0%) completed the trial (mean age, 73.0 years; 122 women [40.4%]). The intensive management group had a lower proportion achieving functional independence (39.4%) than the conventional management group (54.4%), with a significant risk difference (-15.1% [95% CI, -26.2% to -3.9%]) and adjusted odds ratio (0.56 [95% CI, 0.33-0.96]; P = .03). Rates of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage were 9.0% in the intensive group and 8.1% in the conventional group (risk difference, 1.0% [95% CI, -5.3% to 7.3%]; adjusted odds ratio, 1.10 [95% CI, 0.48-2.53]; P = .82). Death related to the index stroke within 3 months occurred in 7.7% of the intensive group and 5.4% of the conventional group (risk difference, 2.3% [95% CI, -3.3% to 7.9%]; adjusted odds ratio, 1.73 [95% CI, 0.61-4.92]; P = .31). Conclusions and Relevance: Among patients who achieved successful reperfusion with EVT for acute ischemic stroke with large vessel occlusion, intensive BP management for 24 hours led to a lower likelihood of functional independence at 3 months compared with conventional BP management. These results suggest that intensive BP management should be avoided after successful EVT in acute ischemic stroke. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04205305.

Role of Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Gradient Within Diffusion Lesions in Outcomes of Large Stroke After Thrombectomy.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The outcome of endovascular treatment in stroke patients with a large ischemic core is not always satisfactory. We evaluated whether the severity of baseline diffusion-weighted imaging abnormalities, as assessed by different apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) thresholds, correlates with the clinical outcome in these patients after successful endovascular treatment. METHODS: In 82 consecutive patients with a large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation admitted ≤24 hours after onset, a baseline diffusion lesion volume (ADC ≤620×10-6 mm2/s [ADC620]) ≥50 mL and successful recanalization by endovascular treatment were retrospectively investigated. Lesion volumes of 3 ADC thresholds (ADC620, ADC ≤520×10-6 mm2/s [ADC520], and ADC ≤540×10-6 mm2/s [ADC540]) were measured using an automated Olea software program. The performance of the ADC520/ADC620 and ADC540/ADC620 ratios in predicting the functional outcome was assessed by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The ADC ratio with optimal threshold showing better receiver operating characteristic performance was dichotomized at its median value into low versus high subgroup and its association with the outcome subsequently evaluated in a multivariable logistic regression model. RESULTS: The median baseline diffusion lesion volume was 80.8 mL (interquartile range, 64.4-105.4). A good functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score, ≤2) was achieved in 35 patients (42.7%). The optimal threshold for predicting the functional outcome was identified as ADC540/ADC620 (area under the curve, 0.833) and dichotomized at 0.674. After adjusting for age, baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator, baseline diffusion lesion volume, and onset-to-recanalization time, a low ADC540/ADC620 was independently associated with a good functional outcome (adjusted odds ratio, 10.72 [95% CI, 3.06-37.50]; P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: A low ADC540/ADC620, which may reflect less severe ischemic stress inside a diffusion lesion, may help to identify patients who would benefit from endovascular treatment despite having a large ischemic core.

Nelonemdaz for Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke Undergoing Endovascular Reperfusion Therapy: A Randomized Phase II Trial.

BACKGROUND: Nelonemdaz is a multitarget neuroprotectant that selectively blocks N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors and scavenges free radicals, as proven in preclinical ischemia-reperfusion studies. We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of nelonemdaz in patients with acute ischemic stroke receiving endovascular reperfusion therapy. METHODS: This phase II randomized trial involved participants with large-artery occlusion in the anterior circulation at baseline who received endovascular reperfusion therapy <8 hours from symptom onset at 7 referral stroke centers in South Korea between October 29, 2016, and June 1, 2020. Two hundred thirteen patients were screened and 209 patients were randomly assigned at a 1:1:1 ratio using a computer-generated randomization system. Patients were divided into 3 groups based on the medication received-placebo, low-dose (2750 mg) nelonemdaz, and high-dose (5250 mg) nelonemdaz. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with modified Rankin Scale scores of 0-2 at 12 weeks. RESULTS: Two hundred eight patients were assigned to the placebo (n=70), low-dose (n=71), and high-dose (n=67) groups. The groups had similar baseline characteristics. The primary outcome was achieved in 183 patients, and it did not differ among the groups (33/61 [54.1%], 40/65 [61.5%], and 36/57 [63.2%] patients; P=0.5578). The common odds ratio (90% CI) indicating a favorable shift in the modified Rankin Scale scores at 12 weeks was 1.55 (0.92-2.60) between the placebo and low-dose groups and 1.61 (0.94-2.76) between the placebo and high-dose groups. No serious adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS: The study arms showed no significant difference in the proportion of patients achieving modified Rankin Scale scores of 0-2 at 12 weeks. Nevertheless, nelonemdaz-treated patients showed a favorable tendency toward achieving these scores at 12 weeks, without serious adverse effects. Thus, a large-scale phase III trial is warranted. REGISTRATION: URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT02831088.

Comparison of Factors Associated With Direct Versus Transferred-in Admission to Government-Designated Regional Centers Between Acute Ischemic Stroke and Myocardial Infarction in Korea.

BACKGROUND: There has been no comparison of the determinants of admission route between acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We examined whether factors associated with direct versus transferred-in admission to regional cardiocerebrovascular centers (RCVCs) differed between AIS and AMI. METHODS: Using a nationwide RCVC registry, we identified consecutive patients presenting with AMI and AIS between July 2016 and December 2018. We explored factors associated with direct admission to RCVCs in patients with AIS and AMI and examined whether those associations differed between AIS and AMI, including interaction terms between each factor and disease type in multivariable models. To explore the influence of emergency medical service (EMS) paramedics on hospital selection, stratified analyses according to use of EMS were also performed. RESULTS: Among the 17,897 and 8,927 AIS and AMI patients, 66.6% and 48.2% were directly admitted to RCVCs, respectively. Multivariable analysis showed that previous coronary heart disease, prehospital awareness, higher education level, and EMS use increased the odds of direct admission to RCVCs, but the odds ratio (OR) was different between AIS and AMI (for the first 3 factors, AMI > AIS; for EMS use, AMI < AIS). EMS use was the single most important factor for both AIS and AMI (OR, 4.72 vs. 3.90). Hypertension and hyperlipidemia increased, while living alone decreased the odds of direct admission only in AMI; additionally, age (65-74 years), previous stroke, and presentation during non-working hours increased the odds only in AIS. EMS use weakened the associations between direct admission and most factors in both AIS and AMI. CONCLUSIONS: Various patient factors were differentially associated with direct admission to RCVCs between AIS and AMI. Public education for symptom awareness and use of EMS is essential in optimizing the transportation and hospitalization of patients with AMI and AIS.

Atherosclerotic Burden and Vascular Risk in Stroke Patients With Atrial Fibrillation.

Background and Purpose: Data on the effect on vascular outcomes of concomitant atherosclerotic vascular disease (ASVD) with atrial fibrillation (AF) after stroke are limited. This study evaluated the effect of ASVD with AF versus AF only on the risk of vascular events. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed a prospectively registered multicenter database involving 3213 stroke patients with AF. ASVD included extracranial atherosclerosis measured in the proximal portion of the internal carotid artery, intracranial atherosclerosis (all ≥50% stenosis), coronary artery disease, and peripheral artery disease and was categorized into 4 strata depending on the number of ASVDs (0, 1, 2, and 3­4). The independent associations of ASVD with major adverse cardiovascular events, stroke, and all-cause death were assessed. Results: A total of 2670 patients were included (mean age, 73.5±9.8 years; median CHA2DS2-VASc score, 5; interquartile range, 4−6). During the follow-up (mean, 1.7 years), a total of 672 (25.2%) major adverse cardiovascular events, 170 (6.4%) stroke events, and 501 (18.8%) all-cause deaths were noted. The adjusted hazard ratio for major adverse cardiovascular events versus no ASVD was 1.25 (95% CI, 1.00­1.56) for ASVD 1, 1.34 (95% CI, 1.02­1.76) for ASVD 2, and 1.93 (95% CI, 1.24­2.99) for ASVD 3­4. The adjusted hazard ratio for all-cause death versus no ASVD was 1.32 (1.01­1.74), 1.47 (1.06­2.03), and 2.39 (1.47­3.89), respectively. Among ASVD components, the presence of symptomatic or asymptomatic extracranial atherosclerosis was a more potent predictor of major adverse cardiovascular events (1.27 [1.05­1.54]) and all-cause death (1.45 [1.17­1.81]). Conclusions: ASVD burden with AF can be a cumulative marker of a high risk for untoward vascular outcomes. Among ASVD components, extracranial atherosclerosis seems to have a predominant effect.

Safety and Efficacy of Otaplimastat in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke Requiring tPA (SAFE-TPA): A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase 2 Study.

OBJECTIVE: Otaplimastat is a neuroprotectant that inhibits matrix metalloprotease pathway, and reduces edema and intracerebral hemorrhage induced by recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) in animal stroke models. We aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of otaplimastat in patients receiving rtPA. METHODS: This was a phase 2, 2-part, multicenter trial in stroke patients (19-80 years old) receiving rtPA. Intravenous otaplimastat was administered <30 minutes after rtPA. Stage 1 was a single-arm, open-label safety study in 11 patients. Otaplimastat 80 mg was administered twice daily for 3 days. Stage 2 was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 69 patients, assigned (1:1:1) to otaplimastat 40 mg, otaplimastat 80 mg, or a placebo. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of parenchymal hematoma (PH) on day 1. Secondary endpoints included serious adverse events (SAEs), mortality, and modified Rankin scale (mRS) distribution at 90 days (clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02787278). RESULTS: No safety issues were encountered in stage 1. The incidence of PH during stage 2 was comparable: 0 of 22 with the placebo, 0 of 22 with otaplimastat 40 mg, and 1 of 21 with the 80 mg dose. No differences in SAEs (13%, 17%, 14%) or death (8.3%, 4.2%, 4.8%) were observed among the 3 groups. Three adverse events (chills, muscle rigidity, hepatotoxicity) were judged to be related to otaplimastat. INTERPRETATION: Intravenous otaplimastat adjunctive therapy in patients receiving rtPA is feasible and generally safe. The functional efficacy of otaplimastat needs to be investigated with further large trials. ANN NEUROL 2020;87:233-245.

Pre-Admission CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc Scores on Early Neurological Worsening.

BACKGROUND: Stroke risk scores (CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc) not only predict the risk of stroke in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, but have also been associated with prognosis after stroke. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between stroke risk scores and early neurological deterioration (END) in ischemic stroke patients with AF. METHODS: We included consecutive ischemic stroke patients with AF admitted between January 2013 and December 2015. CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc scores were calculated using the established scoring system. END was defined as an increase ≥2 on the total National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score or ≥1 on the motor NIHSS score within the first 72 h of admission. RESULTS: A total of 2,099 ischemic stroke patients with AF were included. In multivariable analysis, CHA2DS2-VASc score (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04-1.31) was significantly associated with END after adjusting for confounders. Initial NIHSS score, use of anticoagulants, and intracranial atherosclerosis (ICAS) were also found to be closely associated with END, independent of the CHA2DS2-VASc score. Multivariable analysis stratified by the presence of ICAS demonstrated that both CHA2DS2-VASc (aOR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.04-1.38) and CHADS2 scores (aOR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.01-1.52) were closely related to END in only patients with ICAS. In patients without ICAS, neither of the risk scores were associated with END. CONCLUSIONS: High CHA2DS2-VASc score was associated with END in ischemic stroke patients with AF. This close relationship is more pronounced in patients with ICAS.

Usefulness of combination usage of balloon guide catheter with contact aspiration thrombectomy.

BACKGROUND: Angiographic outcomes of contact aspiration thrombectomy (CAT), a frontline thrombectomy strategy, can vary depending on balloon guide catheter (BGC) usage, stroke etiology, and occlusion location. The purpose of this study was to analyze conditional outcomes of CAT to determine which result in maximum angiographic benefits. METHODS: Patients who received CAT for anterior circulation occlusive stroke between January 2017 and December 2018 were included. Angiographic and clinical outcomes were compared relative to BGC use, stroke etiology, and occlusion location. Multivariable analyses for first-pass reperfusion (FPR) and favorable clinical outcome were performed. RESULTS: Of 160 included patients, the rates of FPR, successful reperfusion after CAT, final successful reperfusion, and favorable clinical outcome were 43.1%, 58.1%, 81.9%, and 60.6%, respectively. BGC use was associated with a higher rate of FPR, successful reperfusion after CAT, a lower rate of distal embolization, and faster reperfusion. Based on subgroup analysis, BGC usage in ICA, MCA M1 occlusion, and cardioembolism were associated with higher FPR, successful reperfusion after CAT, and lower distal embolization. Faster reperfusion was achieved in ICA occlusions and cardioembolisms. BGC usage was an independent predictor of FPR. Favorable clinical outcome was associated with male gender, low initial NIHSS score, fast onset to reperfusion, and FPR. CONCLUSIONS: In CAT, BGC usage was associated with better angiographic outcomes, including higher FPR, successful reperfusion after CAT, prevention of distal embolization, and faster reperfusion, especially in proximal occlusions and cardioembolisms. These conditions may play a role in maximizing the benefits of CAT.

The Clinical Usefulness of Targeted Temperature Management in Acute Ischemic Stroke with Malignant Trait After Endovascular Thrombectomy.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Targeted temperature management (TTM) may be more beneficial after endovascular treatment (EVT) in patients with a large ischemic core. Therefore, we assessed the usefulness of TTM for such patients from a multicenter endovascular registry. METHODS: Anterior circulation stroke patients who underwent endovascular recanalization were included; acute ischemic stroke with malignant traits was designated as (1) baseline Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) below 6 and (2) diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) lesion volume measurement (> 82 ml) or National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score > 20 and item Ia > 0. TTM (34.5 °C) was maintained for at least 48 h. RESULTS: We evaluated baseline demographics, risk factors, EVT parameters, and clinical outcomes between the TTM and non-TTM groups. Among the 548 patients, the TTM group (n = 91) significantly had a lower baseline ASPECTS (p < 0.001) and a higher DWI volume (p < 0.001) than the non-TTM group (n = 457). TTM group had a lower prevalence of favorable outcome (0-2 of modified Rankin Scale at 3 months; p = 0.008) than the non-TTM group. In a subgroup analysis of malignant trait patients (n = 80), TTM patients (n = 28) had more favorable outcome (32.1% vs. 7.7% p = 0.009) and less hemorrhagic transformation (none vs. any hemorrhage, p = 0.007) than non-TTM patients (n = 52). After adjusting for potential outcome predictors, TTM (odds ratio [OR] 4.63; confidence interval [CI] 1.20-17.89; p = 0.026) and hypertension (OR 0.18; CI 0.04-0.74; p = 0.018) were found to be independent determinants. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that TTM attenuates impending hemorrhagic transformation and leads to favorable clinical outcomes in EVT patients with malignant trait.

Prehospital Notification Using a Mobile Application Can Improve Regional Stroke Care System in a Metropolitan Area.

BACKGROUND: Acute ischemic stroke is a time-sensitive disease. Emergency medical service (EMS) prehospital notification of potential patients with stroke could play an important role in improving the in-hospital medical response and timely treatment of patients with acute ischemic stroke. We analyzed the effects of FASTroke, a mobile app that EMS can use to notify hospitals of patients with suspected acute ischemic stroke at the prehospital stage. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective observational study of patients diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke at 5 major hospitals in metropolitan Daegu City, Korea, from February 2020 to January 2021. The clinical conditions and time required for managing patients were compared according to whether the EMS employed FASTroke app and further compared the factors by dividing the patients into subgroups according to the preregistration received by the hospitals when using FASTroke app. RESULTS: Of the 563 patients diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke, FASTroke was activated for 200; of these, 93 were preregistered. The FASTroke prenotification showed faster door-to-computed-tomography times (19 minutes vs. 25 minutes, P < 0.001), faster door-to-intravenous-thrombolysis times (37 minutes vs. 48 minutes, P < 0.001), and faster door-to-endovascular-thrombectomy times (82 minutes vs. 119 minutes, P < 0.001). The time was further shortened when the preregistration was conducted simultaneously by the receiving hospital. CONCLUSION: The FASTroke app is an easy and useful tool for prenotification as a regional stroke care system in the metropolitan area, leading to reduced transport and acute ischemic stroke management time and more reperfusion treatment. The effect was more significant when the preregistration was performed jointly.

Cilostazol Versus Aspirin in Ischemic Stroke Patients With High-Risk Cerebral Hemorrhage: Subgroup Analysis of the PICASSO Trial.

Background and Purpose- Although cilostazol has shown less hemorrhagic events than aspirin, only marginal difference was observed in hemorrhagic stroke events among patients at high risk for cerebral hemorrhage. To identify patients who would most benefit from cilostazol, this study analyzed interactions between treatment and subgroups of the PICASSO trial (Prevention of Cardiovascular Events in Asian Ischemic Stroke Patients With High Risk of Cerebral Hemorrhage). Methods- Ischemic stroke patients with a previous intracerebral hemorrhage or multiple microbleeds were randomized to treatment with cilostazol or aspirin and followed up for a mean 1.8 years. Efficacy, defined as the composite of any stroke, myocardial infarction, and vascular death, and safety, defined as the incidence of hemorrhagic stroke, were analyzed in the 2 groups. Interactions between treatment and age, sex, presence of hypertension and diabetes mellitus, index of high-risk cerebral hemorrhage, and white matter lesion burden were analyzed for primary and key secondary outcomes. Changes in vital signs and laboratory results were compared in the 2 groups. Results- Among all 1534 patients enrolled, a significant interaction between treatment group and index of high risk for cerebral hemorrhage on hemorrhagic stroke (P for interaction, 0.03) was observed. Hemorrhagic stroke was less frequent in the cilostazol than in the aspirin group in patients with multiple microbleeds (1 versus 13 events; hazard ratio, 0.08 [95% CI, 0.01-0.61]; P=0.01). A marginal interaction between treatment group and white matter change on any stroke (P for interaction, 0.08) was observed. Cilostazol reduced any stroke significantly in patients with mild (5 versus 16 events; hazard ratio, 0.36 [95% CI, 0.13-0.97]; P=0.04)-to-moderate (16 versus 32 events; hazard ratio, 0.50 [95% CI, 0.29-0.92]; P=0.03) white matter changes. Heart rate and HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol level were significantly higher in the cilostazol group than in the aspirin group at follow-up. Conclusions- Cilostazol may be more beneficial for ischemic stroke patients with multiple cerebral microbleeds and before white matter changes are extensive. Registration- URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01013532.

Predicting Endovascular Treatment Outcomes in Acute Vertebrobasilar Artery Occlusion: A Model to Aid Patient Selection from the ASIAN KR Registry.

Background The decision to perform endovascular treatment (EVT) for stroke related to vertebrobasilar occlusion (VBO) remains controversial. Purpose To identify preprocedural predictors of good outcomes and to develop a model to aid patient selection for VBO. Materials and Methods For this retrospective study using a Korean multicenter registry, a predictive model for good outcomes (modified Rankin scale score, 0-2) was generated based on a derivation sample of patients with VBO (January 2011-February 2016). Preprocedural parameters, including onset-to-puncture time, infarct volume, occlusion type as a surrogate marker of intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis-related occlusion or embolic occlusion (truncal-type occlusion vs branching site occlusion), and collateral status, were analyzed. Continuous variables were dichotomized based on receiver operating characteristic analysis. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to generate a predictive model. The model was internally validated with the bootstrap method and was externally validated with a single-center sample (April 2016-December 2018). Results A predictive model was generated from 71 patients (mean age, 67 years ± 11 [standard deviation]; 41 [58%] men) and was externally validated in 32 patients (mean age, 72 years ± 13; 19 [59%] men). The composite of initial DW imaging volume of less than 10 mL (odds ratio [OR], 19.3; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.0, 126.4; P = .002), onset-to-puncture time of less than 8 hours (OR, 8.7; 95% CI: 1.8, 42.0; P = .007), and branching-site occlusion (OR, 6.1; 95% CI: 1.5, 26.0; P = .01) could be used to predict good outcomes, with a median area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.86 (interquartile range [IQR], 0.77-0.95; bootstrap optimism-corrected C statistic, 0.837) in the derivation sample and 0.78 (IQR, 0.62-0.95) in the validation sample. Results failed to show an association between collateral status and outcome (P = .67). Conclusion When selecting patients with vertebrobasilar occlusion for endovascular treatment, the combination of onset-to-puncture time of less than 8 hours, initial infarct volume of less than 10 mL, and presence of branching-site occlusions is indicative of a good outcome. © RSNA, 2020 Online supplemental material is available for this article.

Local tirofiban infusion for remnant stenosis in large vessel occlusion: tirofiban ASSIST study.

BACKGROUND: Compared with embolic occlusions, intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS)-related large vessel occlusions (LVOs) often require rescue treatment following mechanical thrombectomy (MT). Herein, we hypothesized that local tirofiban infusion can be effective and safe for remnant stenosis in LVO during endovascular treatment and can improve clinical outcomes. METHODS: This observational multicenter registry study (January 2011 to February 2016) included patients with ICAS who underwent endovascular treatment for LVO within 24 h after stroke onset. An underlying fixed focal stenosis at the occlusion site observed on cerebral angiography during and after MT was retrospectively determined as a surrogate marker of ICAS. Procedural and clinical outcomes were compared between the tirofiban and non-tirofiban groups. RESULTS: Of 118 patients, 59 received local tirofiban infusion. Compared to the non-tirofiban group, patients were older (non-tirofiban group versus tirofiban group; median, 63 years vs. 71 years, p = 0.015) and the onset-to-puncture time was longer (median, 275 min vs. 395 min, p = 0.036) in the tirofiban group. The median percent of residual stenosis prior to rescue treatment tended to be higher in the tirofiban group (80 [71-86] vs. 83 [79-90], p = 0.056). Final reperfusion success (modified Treatment In Cerebral Ischemic 2b-3) was more frequent (42.4%vs. 86.4%, p = 0.016) and post-procedure parenchymal hematoma type 2 and/or thick subarachnoid hemorrhages were less frequent (15.3%vs. 5.1%, p = 0.068) in the tirofiban group. The frequency of favorable outcomes 3 months after endovascular treatment (modified Rankin Scale 0-2) was significantly higher in the tirofiban group (32.2% vs. 52.5%, p = 0.025), and tirofiban administration was an independent predictor of favorable outcomes (odds ratio, 2.991; 95% confidence interval, 1.011-8.848; p = 0.048). CONCLUSIONS: Local tirofiban infusion can be a feasible adjuvant treatment option for patients with ICAS-LVO.

Immediate effects of first-line thrombectomy devices for intracranial atherosclerosis-related occlusion: stent retriever versus contact aspiration.

BACKGROUND: Although stent retriever (SR) is recommended as a frontline device of endovascular treatment (EVT) for embolic large artery occlusion causing acute ischemic stroke, contact aspiration (CA) device showed similar efficacy in the recent trials. However, the efficacy of the both devices as first-line therapy for intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS)-related large vessel occlusion has not yet been established. Therefore, we compared the immediate effects and final outcomes of SR and CA as first-line devices for treating ICAS-related occlusions. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients who underwent EVT for acute ischemic stroke from the registry of three Korean hospitals. Patients with ICAS-related occlusion who were treated within 24 h of onset of the symptoms were included. We investigated immediate reperfusion performance, immediate safety outcomes, and 3-month clinical outcomes for the two first-line devices. RESULTS: Of the 720 registered patients, 111 were eligible for this study. Forty-nine patients (44.1%) used SR and 62 (55.9%) used CA as the first-line device. Achieving successful reperfusion immediately after first-line thrombectomy was more frequent in the SR group than that in the CA group (77.6% vs. 43.5%, p = 0.001), with fewer additional rescue treatments (12.2% vs. 59.7%, p < 0.001). The incidence of iatrogenic dissection or rupture was lower in the SR group than that in the CA group (8.2% vs. 29.0%, p = 0.012). After additional rescue treatments, however, the final successful reperfusion rate did not differ between the two groups (SR 87.8% vs. CA 77.4%, p = 0.247), and there was no significant difference in the 3-month good outcomes (modified Rankin Scale, p = 0.524). CONCLUSIONS: First-line SR thrombectomy showed higher immediate reperfusion and less vessel injury for ICAS-related occlusions than CA. However, there was no significant difference in the final reperfusion status or 3-month outcomes from additional rescue treatments.

A Retrieved Sparganum of Spirometra erinaceieuropaei from a Korean Man during Mechanical Thrombectomy.

Human sparganosis is a zoonotic disease caused by infection and migration of the plerocercoid of Spirometra spp. Although sparganosis were reported from most parts of the body, the sparganum parasitizing inside cerebral artery is remarkably uncommon. We report a case of cerebral intravascular sparganosis in an elderly patient with acute ischemic stroke who was diagnosed by retrieving sparganum during mechanical thrombectomy. Finally, the parasites were identified as Spirometra erinaceieuropaei using multiplex PCR and cox1 gene sequencing.

Ischemic Diffusion Lesion Reversal After Endovascular Treatment.

Background and Purpose- Several studies have reported partial reversal of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) lesions after acute stroke reperfusion treatment. However, factors associated with DWI reversal have not yet been systematically investigated. We evaluated the factors associated with DWI reversal after endovascular treatment (EVT). Methods- We retrospectively analyzed consecutively encountered patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent EVT at 3 comprehensive stroke centers in Korea from January 2011 to February 2016. Patients who received EVT within 24 hours of anterior circulation infarction and had both baseline and follow-up DWIs were included. DWI reversal was defined as a decrease in DWI volume from baseline to follow-up. We compared the characteristics and outcomes between patients with and without DWI reversal and assessed independent factors associated with DWI reversal. Results- Of 720 patients encountered during the time period, 404 patients (56.1%) met the study criteria, with 63 patients (15.5%) showing DWI reversal after EVT. The mean time interval between baseline and follow-up DWI was 4.7±2.4 days. Mean baseline DWI volumes of patients with and without DWI reversal were 30.1±36.7 versus 22.0±30.7 mL ( P=0.106), and follow-up DWI volumes were 17.8±24.9 versus 68.7±77.5 mL ( P<0.001). Patients with DWI reversal showed better functional outcomes at 3 months than those without DWI reversal (modified Rankin Scale [interquartile range], 1 [0-3] versus 2 [1-4]; P=0.001). In a multivariate analysis, complete reperfusion (odds ratio, 1.954; 95% CI, 1.063-3.582) and shorter time from baseline DWI to final reperfusion (odds ratio, 0.991; 95% CI, 0.983-0.998) were independently associated with DWI reversal. Conclusions- Complete reperfusion and shorter imaging time to recanalization were independently associated with DWI reversal among patients with acute ischemic stroke who received EVT.

Balloon Guide Catheter Is Beneficial in Endovascular Treatment Regardless of Mechanical Recanalization Modality.

Background and Purpose- Based on its mechanism, the use of balloon guide catheters (BGCs) may be beneficial during endovascular treatment, regardless of the type of mechanical recanalization modality used-stent retriever thrombectomy or thrombaspiration. We evaluated whether the use of BGCs can be beneficial regardless of the first-line mechanical endovascular modality used. Methods- We retrospectively reviewed consecutive acute stroke patients who underwent stent retriever thrombectomy or thrombaspiration from the prospectively maintained registries of 17 stroke centers nationwide. Patients were assigned to the BGC or non-BGC group based on the use of BGCs during procedures. Endovascular and clinical outcomes were compared between the BGC and non-BGC groups. To adjust the influence of the type of first-line endovascular modality on successful recanalization and favorable outcome, multivariable analyses were also performed. Results- This study included a total of 955 patients. Stent retriever thrombectomy was used as the first-line modality in 526 patients (55.1%) and thrombaspiration in 429 (44.9%). BGC was used in 516 patients (54.0%; 61.2% of stent retriever thrombectomy patients; 45.2% of thrombaspiration patients). The successful recanalization rate was significantly higher in the BGC group compared with the non-BGC group (86.8% versus 74.7%, respectively; P<0.001). Furthermore, the first-pass recanalization rate was more frequent (37.0% versus 14.1%; P<0.001), and the number of device passes was fewer in the BGC group (2.5±1.9 versus 3.3±2.1; P<0.001). The procedural time was also shorter in the BGC group (54.3±27.4 versus 67.6±38.2; P<0.001). The use of BGC was an independent factor for successful recanalization (odds ratio, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.54-3.10; P<0.001) irrespective of the type of first-line endovascular modality used. The use of BGC was also an independent factor for a favorable outcome (odds ratio, 1.40; 95% CI, 1.02-1.92; P=0.038) irrespective of the type of first-line endovascular modality used. Conclusions- Regardless of the first-line mechanical endovascular modality used, the use of BGC in endovascular treatment was beneficial in terms of both recanalization success and functional outcome.

Frontline contact aspiration thrombectomy using SOFIA catheter for acute ischemic stroke: period-to-period comparison with Penumbra catheter.

BACKGROUND: Recent aspiration thrombectomy devices tend to have a more flexible distal tip and larger bore for easy target access and effective reperfusion. Here, this study primarily focused on the efficacy and safety of the SOFIA catheters when it was used as a frontline contact aspiration thrombectomy (CAT) tool for acute intracranial large vessel occlusion in comparison with the data from a period when the Penumbra catheter was used. METHODS: The subjects comprised 189 patients who underwent CAT (90 with Penumbra Max family and 99 with SOFIA/SOFIA plus). Patients' data were retrospectively analyzed to evaluate overall clinical and angiographic outcomes and compared between the devices. RESULTS: Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. But, intravenous alteplase was more frequently administered in the Penumbra group (43.3% vs. 29.3%, p = 0.045), while incidence of ICA occlusion was higher in SOFIA group (18.9% vs. 38.4%, p = 0.013). The modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction 2b-3 of reperfusion was 94.4% for the Penumbra group and 92.9% for the SOFIA group (p = 0.656). The first-pass effect was more frequently achieved in the SOFIA group (20.0% vs. 39.4%, p = 0.004) and endovascular procedure time was significantly shorter (55.5 min vs. 36 min, p < 0.001). However, clinical outcomes did not differ significantly regarding mortality (11.1% vs. 6.1%, p = 0.213), hemorrhagic complications, and mRS 0-2 at 3 months (63.3% vs. 58.6%; p = 0.504). CONCLUSION: CAT using SOFIA may be safe and comparable to thrombectomy using the Penumbra reperfusion catheter. And, the SOFIA catheter could be advantageous for rapid reperfusion and first-pass effect without any significant complications.

Medication Adherence of Statin Users after Acute Ischemic Stroke.

Although statins are established therapy for the secondary prevention of ischemic stroke, factors associated with adherence to statin treatment following ischemic stroke are not well known. To address this, we assessed the 6-month statin adherence using 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8 in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Of 991 patients, 65.6% were adherent to statin at 6-month after discharge. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that patients' awareness of hyperlipidemia (OR 1.62; 95% CI 1.07-2.43), large artery stroke subtype (versus non-large artery stroke, OR 1.79; 95% CI 1.19-2.68), and alcohol drinking habits (OR 1.64; 95% CI 1.06-2.53) were positively associated, while high statin dose (versus low dose, OR 0.6; 95% CI 0.40-0.90) and higher daily number of medication pills (OR 0.93; 95% CI 0.88-0.97) were found to have a negative association with self-reported good adherence to statin medication after acute ischemic stroke. However, stroke severity and diagnosis of hyperlipidemia were not associated with adherence. These results suggest that educational and motivational interventions may enhance statin adherence because modifiable factors were associated with statin adherence.

Efficacy, safety, and clinical outcome of modern mechanical thrombectomy in elderly patients with acute ischemic stroke.

BACKGROUND: The average life expectancy is increasing worldwide, surpassing 80 years in some countries. Recently, mechanical thrombectomy (MT) using modern devices and techniques has led to improved clinical outcomes following acute ischemic stroke. However, thus far, it remains uncertain whether MT is effective in elderly patients aged over 80 years. METHODS: Between July 2013 and June 2016, 207 patients with acute ischemic stroke in the anterior circulation received MT at our center. The applied MT strategies were forced arterial suction thrombectomy (FAST) and stent retriever thrombectomy. Patients were divided into those <80 years (n = 173) and those ≥80 years (n = 34). We compared clinical and angiographic parameters between groups. RESULTS: The median age was 67.5 in the younger group and 82 in the elderly group; 92.5% of the younger group and 70.6% of the elderly group received MT via the FAST technique. Angiographic outcomes, including procedural time, mTICI 2b-3 reperfusion (85.5% vs. 82.4%, p = 0.633), and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, were not different between the groups. A favorable clinical outcome rate was significantly higher in the younger group (62.4% vs. 44.1%, p = 0.047). Younger age, a low NIHSS score, and fast onset to reperfusion time were favorable prognostic factors in elderly patients. CONCLUSION: Modern MT in elderly patients with acute ischemic stroke is safe and effective compared to younger patients despite a lower favorable clinical outcome. Our findings may suggest that an appropriate MT strategy with respect to the location of the target occlusion and vascular tortuosity might be helpful to achieve fast reperfusion and improved outcomes for elderly patients.